Title
Adoption of Resolution Allowing Electronic Filing of Campaign Finance Disclosure Forms. (City Clerk)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers
From: Lara Weisiger, City Clerk
Re: Adoption of Resolution Allowing Electronic Filing of Campaign Finance Disclosure Forms
BACKGROUND
In 2012, the State legislature approved a bill to allow local jurisdictions to require filing of campaign statements and reports in an electronic format. Allowing campaign committees to submit forms electronically streamlines the process for committees and uses less of the City Clerk’s office time and resources. Typical campaign committees that file in the City of Alameda City Clerk’s office are those primarily formed to support or oppose Alameda measures or candidates, including School Board, and general purpose committees active only in the City of Alameda.
DISCUSSION
The City Clerk’s office purchased software to allow electronic filing and is completing implementation, which includes Council authorizing the City to accept electronic statements instead of the filing of paper statements that must contain original signatures. Statements filed in July, 2018 will be the first to be filed electronically in the new system. Forms filed electronically will be posted on the City’s website in a searchable format, which increases transparency. No longer requiring paper filing is also a small step the City can take to conserve resources.
In order to allow campaign committees to adjust to the new program, it is recommended that the City Council allow electronic filings, rather than making it a requirement at this point. The matter can return to Council in the future to consider making electronic filing mandatory.
The City Clerk’s office is implementing electronic filing for the Statement of Economic Interests, Form 700, too. However, the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC), rather than the City Council, is responsible for authorizing the City to accept electronic filings. On January 26, 2018, the FPPC approved allowing electronic filing of Form 700s in the City of Alameda.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The budget for the approximately $13,000 software purchase is included in the City Clerk’s election fund (2220-61060) using revenue from the department’s passport program.
MUNICIPAL CODE/POLICY DOCUMENT CROSS REFERENCE
There are no pertinent Municipal Code references or policy documents.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action is not a project for the purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Guidelines section 15061 (b) (3) as there is no possibility that this action may have a significant effect on the environment.
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the resolution allowing electronic filing of campaign finance disclosure forms.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger, City Clerk
Financial Impact section reviewed,
Edwin Gato, Acting Finance Director